The eye is the second most complex organ next to the brain and is made up of more than 2 million working parts. In order to keep your eyes working to their full potential, follow these everyday guidelines that will lead to better eye health.
Have the right protective eyewear
Whether you work with heavy machinery, play a competitive sport, or enjoy a nice walk on a sunny day, everyone will need some form of protective eyewear in their lifetime. The eyes are one of the most susceptible organs to injury in the human body. In the workforce alone, more than 2,000 people will experience eye injuries at work each day. However, wearing the correct eyewear can reduce your chances of injury by more than 90%.
Eat well and exercise
Your overall health and eye health are critically linked. In fact, certain eye symptoms can be signs of bigger health issues, like diabetes. However, when you take care of your body with a well-balanced diet and regular exercise, you are helping to prevent eye disease as well. A well-balanced diet filled with nutrients such as vitamins, zinc and omega-3’s helps to nourish your eyes, and vigorous exercise helps circulate the blood within your retina.
Quit Smoking
Smoking is not only linked to certain cancers and diseases, but it can also take a toll on your eye health. Smoking is one of the leading causes of vision loss and blindness, and people who smoke increase their risk for:
- Cataracts
- Macular Degeneration
- Uveitis
- Diabetic Retinopathy
By quitting, you can stop the damage that has occurred to your eyes as well as begin reducing your risk for developing macular degeneration and cataracts.
Get Good Sleep
You may feel like you run smoothly on less than five hours of sleep and a large cup of coffee in the morning but, in reality, your eye health is taking a hit. Research indicates that your eyes need five hours or more of sleep a night to be restored. Anything less and your eyes will not work to their full capacity. Continual loss of sleep can also lead to permanent conditions, such as dry eye.
Get a Routine Eye Exam
The best way to give your eyes the quality care they deserve starts with receiving your routine eye exams. These exams ensure your eyes are working at their best as well as screen for early stages of any eye-related diseases. If it’s been a while since you’ve had your eyes examined, schedule an appointment today!